South Korea will explore ways to strengthen cooperation with the United States in the shipbuilding and energy sectors during the upcoming “2+2 trade consultations,” according to Seoul’s Industry Minister Ahn Duk-geun.

The discussions aim to tackle trade imbalances that have led Washington to impose steep import tariffs on South Korean goods under its broader trade policy framework, Yonhap News Agency reported.

“We plan to discuss the trade imbalance issue, as well as industrial cooperation in the shipbuilding and energy sectors,” Ahn told reporters before departing for Washington. He will be joined by Finance Minister Choi Sang-mok for the high-level dialogue with U.S. counterparts.

The South Korean ministers are scheduled to meet U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on Thursday (U.S. time).

Ahn emphasized a strategic and steady approach to negotiations, aiming to lay the groundwork for future talks.

The consultations come in response to the U.S. administration’s imposition of reciprocal tariffs, including a 25 percent duty on South Korean imports—temporarily reduced to 10 percent for 90 days to allow room for dialogue.

Finance Minister Choi is also slated to participate in the G20 finance ministers and central bank governors meeting in Washington.

On the possibility of the defense cost-sharing issue resurfacing, Ahn said the South Korean government is preparing for all outcomes, referencing its appearance in prior U.S.-Japan trade talks.

“We are also preparing for the possibility of meeting President Trump face-to-face,” he added, noting the U.S. leader’s surprise involvement in previous negotiations.

Addressing domestic concerns, Ahn said the government is working swiftly to mitigate the effects of the 25 percent tariff on Korean vehicle and auto part exports, and that a longer-term plan may be passed on to the next administration if necessary.

Ahn is also expected to hold a separate one-on-one meeting with USTR Greer to address non-tariff barriers, including newly announced U.S. port fees on foreign-built car carriers.

Delegates from South Korea’s foreign affairs, science, agriculture, and other ministries will also attend the trade talks, reflecting a broad government push to manage economic ties with the U.S.